Diary of Samuel Sewall

  • Witchcraft exame

    Went to Salem, where, in the meeting-house, the persons accused of witchcraft were examined. Was a very great assembly. 'Twas awful to see how the afflicted persons were agitated.
  • many died

    This day John Willard and many others were executed. All of them said they were innocent. Mr Mather said they all died a righteous sentence.
  • Crushed

    Giles Cory was stood mute. For two days much pains was used with him, one after another. He was pressed to death.
  • Publishing trials

    Some people and his brother was at his house talking about publishing some trials of the witches. Mr Stoughton went away and left us.It began to rain and was very dark, it had been a plentiful rain blessed be God.
  • Pardon sins

    Prayed that God would pardon all of his sinful wanderings. Also, bless the Assembly in thier debates and that he would choose and assist our judges.